Siri Fort is a significant historical fort built during the reign of Alauddin Khilji, the second ruler of the Khilji dynasty. It is located in the southern part of modern-day Delhi, India, and was part of the City of Siri, one of the seven historical cities that make up present-day Delhi. Key Information about Siri Fort: Establishment: Date: Siri Fort was constructed between 1297 and 1307 AD. Builder: Alauddin Khilji. Purpose: It was built primarily as a military outpost to defend the Delhi Sultanate against Mongol invasions. Alauddin Khilji faced numerous Mongol threats during his reign, and Siri served as a strategic fortification to protect the Sultanate. Historical Context: Siri was part of the second city of Delhi and is often associated with Alauddin Khilji’s ambitions to fortify his capital and expand his empire. It was also home to his palace and administrative center. The city of Siri was known for its large fortifications and walls. According to some historical accounts, the city walls were said to be so strong that they could withstand heavy attacks from invaders. Architecture: The fort had massive walls made of rubble masonry, which was typical of the period’s construction techniques. Siri Fort was believed to have had a palace, mosques, and living quarters inside, along with large granaries and storage facilities to withstand sieges. Unfortunately, much of the original structure of Siri has been lost, and only fragments of the fort remain today. What is visible now are mainly sections of the walls. Cultural and Historical Significance: Siri Fort was the site of many important events during Khilji’s reign, including the mustering of his armies before key battles. The fort and city were also linked to Khilji's ambitious public works projects, including the construction of a grand mosque. Today, Siri Fort is a reminder of the strategic importance of Delhi in medieval India and the military prowess of Alauddin Khilji's empire. Present Condition: Very little remains of the original Siri Fort due to centuries of neglect, urban expansion, and environmental factors. Some walls and gates can still be seen in parts of the area known as Siri Fort in modern Delhi. The area around the fort is now known as the Siri Fort Complex, which includes residential areas, a prominent auditorium, and a sports complex. Siri Fort holds a critical place in Delhi’s medieval history, reflecting the military, architectural, and strategic contributions of the Khilji dynasty to the region.
